WHAT a pity that PCSO Warters did not bother to acquaint himself with the by-laws governing Okehampton's Symmons Park before instructing dog walkers in the park to put their animals on a lead or stating that 'People should keep their dogs on leads in the park' (Times, September 9).
The by-laws are displayed inside the main gate and the relevant by-law simply states that 'Dogs must be kept under control at all times'. Despite the 'Dogs on leads' signs in the park there is no requirement to do so under the by-laws.
Rather than issuing threats of use of the Dangerous Dogs Act PCSO Warters time might be better spent pursuing those dog owners who allow their dogs to defecate in the park and who can't be bothered to clear up the excrement afterwards. That is not only an offence but also offensive to other users of the park.
C Letchford
Vicarage Road
Okehampton